Short Description
DOCK is a hybrid space — part service-oriented, sustainably developed research center, and part experimental off-space. Positioned between a showcase and a meeting point, DOCK builds bridges between artistic practice and questions of community life, democracy, and art criticism.
In addition to rotating exhibitions, discussions, and educational formats, DOCK maintains an archive that represents around 300 contemporary artists from Basel. This archive includes an art lending service, an online database, and a physical artist archive.
The position of Artistic Director offers insight into the activities of a contemporary art space and the curatorial work of an off-space. The role provides direct contact with local artists and cultural practitioners, opportunities to engage in art education, and experience in shaping an artistic program.
The Artistic Director is supported by an Administrative Director, responsible for fundraising, reporting, and accounting tasks, and who is available for assistance whenever needed. In addition, the Artistic Director oversees a team of two staff members who manage the DOCK Archive, media work, and art lending, as well as assist with curatorial tasks.
Areas of Responsibility:
- Research, curation, planning, and implementation of the artistic program
- Administrative and operational tasks in the daily office routine
- Writing texts for the website and conceptual texts for dossiers
- Supporting artists; attending and speaking at exhibition openings; assisting with the preparation and follow-up of exhibitions and projects
- Supervising and guiding a two-person team; serving as the link between the board and the association
- Accompanying a transformation process in the area of diversity
Workload and Terms:
- 30% position – working days are Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, with presence required on at least two afternoons between 1:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. (schedule to be arranged)
- Willingness to attend evening and weekend events as needed
- Start date: training and onboarding from February 2026
- Work location: Basel (Kleinbasel)
- Contract duration: fixed term of 3 years, with the possibility of extension
- Monthly salary: CHF 1,800
Eligibility
- You are at the beginning of your professional career (approximately within five years after graduation or first work experience)
- You hold a degree in art, art education, or a related field, and have initial practical experience in exhibition organization and concept development
- A strong interest in contemporary visual art and the Basel art scene
- Vision for multi-year curatorial concepts
- Interest in diversity topics and a willingness to engage in shared learning around them
- Excellent communication skills in German and English, and a talent for writing
- Flexibility and the ability to adapt to changing situations in the daily life of a non-profit organization
- An independent, open, and communicative personality
- Knowledge of Microsoft Office and Adobe programs (e.g., InDesign)
- Residence in Basel or the surrounding region
Submission Requirements
A concept outline for a curatorial program that you would like to implement at DOCK over the next three years, and your reasoning behind it.
- The goal is to learn about your interests and vision; the text will not be evaluated based on feasibility or implementation.
- The following questions can serve as guidance:
- What themes currently interest you, and why?
- How did you come across these themes?
- What do you think is currently missing in the art scene, and how could DOCK address this?
- Who would be involved in your program? What artistic formats (e.g., workshops, exhibitions, etc.) are you considering?
How to Apply
Online Application
Entry Fee
None
Location
Basel, Switzerland
Timeline
- Application Deadline: 10 November 2025
Website Link: https://dock-basel.ch/
